Labor Day is here, which means it’s the unofficial start of fall, even if the temperatures don't suggest it. It’s time to plan your fall foliage trip. It’s one of the most beautiful times to explore Colorado, whether in the high country or the Front Range and Foothills. Despite the dry conditions, the colors are predicted to peak a bit early this year. The state is full of scenic drives, which makes it easy to soak in Colorado’s beauty. Here are a few to add to your calendar.
Trail Ridge Road
One of Colorado's most famous drives, take a weekend to visit Rocky Mountain National Park and drive from Estes Park to Grand Lake. This drive is full of color and a lot more. You’ll see plenty of Elk and possibly some snowflakes. This legendary drive is unforgettable.
Peak to Peak Highway
This 55-mile stretch of Colorado beauty takes you from Blackhawk and Central City to Estes Park. Along the way, you can visit the historic Central City Opera House and take in Rocky Mountain National Park.
Cache La Poudre to North Park
Head north to Fort Collins to check out this drive. You can see elk, deer, and moose wandering among the aspens and pines and drinking from the famed Cache La Poudre River. Stop at the East Sand Dunes Natural Area and Red Feather Lakes for photos. This 101-mile trip is perfect for fall colors.
Top of The Rockies
Want to go up high? Head west to Copper Mountain for the official start of this drive, though you'll have plenty to see along I-70 before Copper. Start at Copper Mountain, head to Leadville, then west to Aspen. This 82-mile drive takes you above 9,000 ft across the Continental Divide. Photo opportunities include old mines, high lakes, and Mt. Elbert. Historic Leadville is America's highest incorporated city and a great place to stretch your legs along the drive.
Fall River Road to St. Mary’s Alice Glacier
If you want to stay closer to the metro area, this 9-mile drive is perfect. Head west on I-70 to Fall River Road, then head north to the St. Mary’s trailhead. This stretch of road is winding and steep. If you want to stretch your legs, hike the 1.5-mile trail to the glacier. You’ll be rewarded with extraordinary colors and views.
Guanella Pass
Start just off I-70 in Georgetown, then take the pass to Grant and US-285. The breathtaking view will take you up to 11,669 ft. The drive takes about an hour, but take your time and make a day of it to take in the beauty of this part of the state. It’s one of the state's most popular drives, with plenty of hiking and camping along the way. After you get off the pass, take a quick turn onto 285 to head to Kenosha Pass.
Conifer to South Park
This drive begins just 15 miles Southwest of Denver and takes you 54 miles to historic South Park. You’ll cross Kenosha Pass and travel through the beautiful South Park Valley on the other side. Stop and stretch your legs and take pictures at the top of the pass. Whether you enjoy a hike, bike ride, or peaceful drive, you'll find plenty of ways to take in Colorado's fall beauty.
Check out these and more scenic drives to find the best colors this year.